DS-2 Turbo Distortion

The DS-2 Turbo Distortion arrived in 1987 with a feature the DS-1 lacked: two distinct distortion modes. Mode I is similar to the DS-1's character. Mode II adds a significant mid-range spike and extra gain, creating a more aggressive, cutting tone.

Kurt Cobain adopted the DS-2 for Nirvana's later period, particularly for its Turbo II mode's ability to cut through the band's dense live sound. The mid-frequency boost in Turbo II sits right where a guitar needs to be heard in a loud mix, which is why it became a staple for alternative and grunge players.

Level, Tone, and Distortion controls, plus the Turbo I/II mode switch. The mode switch can also be controlled by a remote footswitch, enabling hands-free mode changes during a song. At 13mA, it's still very power-efficient.

The DS-2 is the aggressive sibling of the DS-1. Where the DS-1 is balanced and versatile, the DS-2's Turbo II mode is deliberately forward and cutting. It's a tool for being heard, not for sitting politely in a mix.